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Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

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3.8 from 3 reviews

This Perfect Baked Potato Recipe yields crispy-skinned, fluffy-on-the-inside potatoes that are a classic and comforting side dish. Simply seasoned with olive oil, butter, salt, and pepper, these russet potatoes are baked to perfection in the oven, making them a foolproof recipe for any meal.

Ingredients

For the Baked Potatoes

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) placing a rack in the middle position and another in the lower position. Thoroughly wash the potatoes with a stiff brush to remove dirt and pat them dry.
  2. Poke the Potatoes: Using a fork, poke each potato 8-12 times about an inch deep all over to allow steam to escape during baking. Lightly brush each potato with extra virgin olive oil for a crispy skin.
  3. Arrange for Baking: Place the prepared potatoes directly on the middle oven rack. Put a sheet pan on the lower rack underneath to catch any drips from the potatoes while baking.
  4. Bake the Potatoes: Bake for 1 hour or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a knife.
  5. Cool: Remove the potatoes from the oven and transfer them to a cutting board to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  6. Serve: Cut the potatoes lengthwise from end to end and gently squeeze one end towards the other to fluff the interior. Top each potato with salted butter, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Notes

  • Choose russet potatoes for the best fluffy interior and crispy skin texture.
  • Use a fork to poke holes in the potatoes to prevent bursting during baking.
  • The olive oil coating helps create a deliciously crispy skin.
  • Adjust baking time slightly if potatoes are larger or smaller than typical large size.
  • Leftover baked potatoes can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for optimal crispness.